In an attempt to stave off complete collapse, Eskom is supplementing its power output with expensive diesel-powered open cycle gas turbines (OCGTs).

Eskom has warned that it may implement stage 2 rotational load shedding on Monday 3 December.

After a dismal weekend of intermittent load shedding, Eskom has announced that, although it managed to stabilise the grid late on Sunday evening, further electricity cuts can be expected to persist well into December.

A severe loss of operational capacity, resulting from poor maintenance programs, has embattled the power utility and inconvenienced South African citizens and business owners. In an attempt to stave off complete collapse, Eskom is supplementing its power output with expensive diesel-powered open cycle gas turbines (OCGTs).

This solution, however, is not sustainable, as Eskom’s financial position rivals its dismal operational standing. Last week, Eskom’s annual financial report revealed that the company was running on empty – both literally and figuratively – as coal reserves dwindle to dire levels.

Load shedding Monday 3 December

While load shedding was terminated on Sunday evening, providing citizens with a brief reprieve, Eskom warned that its operational position had not improved. The latest statement issued by Eskom, regarding the probability of load shedding, reads:

“Our operational position has not improved due to several difficulties we encountered over the weekend. Our maintenance teams continue to work through the night to bring back units.

The probability of Stage 2 rotational load shedding remains high from 09:00 until 22:00 tomorrow as a result of a shortage of capacity.

Over and above these challenges, we are experiencing low diesel reserves due to the continued pressure on the national grid resulting in excessive usage of open-cycle gas turbines.”

Stage 2 load shedding allows for up to 2000 MW of the national load to be shed and can last for up to five hours at a time. To find out if your area will be affected by load shedding, visit Eskom’s online portal here: www.loadshedding.eskom.co.za